Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds. (Hebrews 12:1-3)

Thought For Today:
Have you recently heard a message about the meaning of the cross? If you were to ask people what the cross represents, you may be surprised by their answers. Paul addressed the church in Corinth saying, "For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness, but unto us which are saved it is the power of God" (1 Corinthians 1:18). The cross is a symbol of reconciliation and draws us back to God. Jesus said, "And I if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me" (John 12:32). He also told Nicodemus, "And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven. And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life" (John 3:13-15). The cross fulfilled scripture and gives us the power to triumph over our enemies. As born-again believers, whenever we see a cross, whether it's on someone's neck, in a picture, or in a field, we should immediately think of what Jesus did for us at Calvary. He redeemed us from our sins and drew us back to Himself.